Kirk Cousins
When theFalcons signedKirk Cousins to a four year deal worth up to $180 million just last offseason, he was brought in as the unquestioned starter. That plan didn’t survive the year. By late 2024, rookieMichael Penix Jr. had seized the job, and never gave it back.
Publicly, Cousins says he’s“moving forward” and focused on helping Atlanta win. Privately, he’s made it clear he’d like to start elsewhere. For now, the 36 year old is preparing the NFL’s highest paid backup.
Falcons’ Stance: An Expensive Insurance Policy
Kirk Cousins
GettyKirk Cousins threw a career-high 16 interceptions in 14 games the Falcons benched him for rookie Michael Penix Jr.
Atlanta owes Cousins$27.5 million guaranteed in 2025, with a $40 million cap hit, plus another $10 million roster bonus in 2026. Releasing him now would trigger a massive $37-40 million in dead money, making a clean break financially unappealing.
That commitment has not only kept Cousins in Atlanta but also made other teams wary of pursuing him. Even franchises that like his track record as a starter are reluctant to take on a contract that ties up tens of millions in guaranteed money for a quarterback approaching 37. Any acquiring team would need to absorb most of that salary, which limits the pool of realistic trade partners.
The Falcons view Cousins as valuable insurance for their young starter, even at a steep price. Blank has said they won’t“hold him back” if the right opportunity arises, but until then, they’re content with the roster stability he provides.
Early rumors tied him to theBrowns thanks to his connection with head coach Kevin Stefanski, but Cleveland re-signedJoe Flacco and drafted 2 QBs. TheVikings,Steelers,Jets,Giants,Saints, andRams have all been mentioned, but none offer a clear path to a starting role or the cap flexibility to absorb his deal. Most executives call his contract“untradeable” unless he restructures or Atlanta eats a large chunk of his salary.
The Waiting Game
Kirk Cousins
Getty“His arm strength was not great and has fallen off a little more,” a former GM told Sando.
The most realistic path out of Atlanta for Kirk Cousins may be patience. Either waiting for an injury or late season quarterback crisis to create demand. Around the league, there are a few situations worth keeping an eye on.
InMinnesota, second year quarterbackJ.J. McCarthy is rehabbing from an ACL injury and may not be ready to start the season at full strength. InPittsburgh,Aaron Rodgers is set to open the year as QB1, but at 41 years old, the risk of injury or late season fatigue is real.
For now, though, Cousins remains firmly entrenched as Atlanta’s No. 2 quarterback. Quite an expensive luxury at $27.5 million guaranteed in 2025. While he’s made it clear he doesn’t want to finish his career as a backup, Cousins has embraced his role in camp, supporting Michael Penix Jr. and preparing as if he’ll spend the entire year in a Falcons uniform.
The Falcons are in no rush. If a starting opportunity emerges, they’ll listen. If not, Cousins may ride out the season as football’s priciest insurance policy before chasing one last starting shot.